Services and fees    
There are several training options available below depending on your needs. My advice: don't select a trainer by price alone. You want to work with someone who uses methods  (click here for methods I use) that feel comfortable to you and your dog, someone who studies and understands dog psychology,  and also someone who can communicate with humans well! Most importantly, you want to go to someone who is effective in solving your dog's issues, whether basic training or behavior problems in a way that's fun for you and your dog. I request written questionnaires to be returned to me before we meet- this saves you money and time. All fees include preparation time putting together a personalized packet; all the paperwork takes alot of time!

Some may think that dog training is expensive and a waste of money (that's before they come!), but you're going to have that dog for years as part of your family. Spread out over the course of your pet's life, training is less than a bag of treats, and much longer lasting! A well-mannered dog is priceless, and worth the time and money for basic training and/or solving problem behaviors. I'm actually more of a "doggie psychologist", which requires extensive knowledge of canine learning behavior and how to address the myriad behavior problems presented.

The Cost of NOT Training:  
• New shoes chewed $$       • Replacing carpet and furniture  $$$   • Can't have people over ??  •Vet & lawyer bills from dog bite $$$$
How would YOUR life be different if you had a polite, trained dog?

The Single Session Model: Many professional trainers meet with you the first time to take a history and evaluate your dog, and maybe offer a few tips before selling a long-term training contract. (It reminds me of the dentist I went to, expecting him to fix my tooth, only to find that he never works on anyone the first time; I had to have all these discussions, exams, x-rays, fill out forms,  pay $$$ etc., and left with a still aching tooth- grrrr! )

I believe you called a professional dog trainer because you want immediate help. Most people today don't have time to commit to long-term training and want some instant gratification. The problems that most people call with are merely symptoms of a deeper problem, which usually stem from lack of understanding and communication between 2 species. You'll GET that after our session; this is a (fun) crash course on you and your dog. You'll only have to gather the household together once; if further training is desired, one person can come because the foundation has been set and everyone's on the same page.

This is so different than what most people expect that many ask why I do it this way. When I started, my intial sessions were an hour, then 90 minutes, and people were amazed at what their dog could do, they kept asking questions, they wanted me to keep teaching their dog new things: they wanted to keep going (It's been 2 hours?!").  And I kept talking, and my sessions always went over, messing up my scheduling.  Then I read about a marriage counselor who switched to 6 hour therapy sessions from once a week ad infinitum, and noticed dramatic improvement. Just as they were getting into an issue, he'd be saying, "Our 50 minutes is up- see you next week!" He lost the momentum. 

Does this mean that all the problems will be solved or your dog will be completely trained in 2 or 3 hours? Probably not; I'm not the Fairy Dogmother with a magic wand. BUT you will notice a big improvement, you and your dog will both learn ALOT, AND know how to continue with success instead of frustration. You'll have the tools to continue.

Does this mean you can never see me again? Many people do continue follow-up training, either on what we started (adding distance, duration, distractions) or new issues that surface. Puppy owners usually continue into class or private instruction. Aggression and serious fear/anxiety issues are not resolved in one-session, though almost everyone notices dramatic improvement. But many people are delighted with just the one session.

1) Owner Training 101- 2 hours
“Owner Training 101”  is the first step because it’s usually the owners who need just as much training as the dogs at first <smile>. It’s a jam-packed 2 hour session and we cover alot of ground. We discuss your dog’s history/lifestyle in the evaluation part as well as your goals for training/behavior modification. The crux of the program is an easy, eye-opening program for you to follow: simple things YOU can do that change how your dog acts. You'll realize how much your dog has modified YOUR behavior! You bring your family, and dog, of course, and after evaluating him/her, I teach you and your dog some basic exercises with the clicker, and we discuss/fix one or two immediate behavior or training problems. You will leave with a full packet of handouts and lots of new information. Most families have told me that they notice a dramatic improvement just after this first session. People love the one-session model in these hectic times. We cover SO much material that it’s one of the best investments you can make for a happy relationship with your dog. It’s one reason so many vets and the Humane Society refer clients to me. I will evaluate your dog and see if further training is recommended. For many cases, this one session may be all you need. $120 for 2 hours (average); for large families, multiple dogs, or any overtime: $15/15 minutes.

" You really know dogs! And how to communicate to people, too! We couldn't believe the difference in our puppy after the first session- it seemed so simple. But you were right; it made sense to the dog, and now our relationship is better than ever. I teach teachers, and I now use you as an example of effective teaching. If you ever need a reference, let me know, but I doubt it- you're SO good! Thanks so much! We really enjoyed the lessons. We'll be back for advanced training." J.S., Elk Rapids

"My husband said it was a waste of time and money going to a trainer; he had always had dogs growing up. But he grudgingly came, and I wanted to let you know that even though he was very quiet, you should hear him talk about what he learned to his friends and family! And the kids are doing great with Casey- that session made a big difference."  D.E., Onaway

"We thought it was going to be a long boring 2 hours. Boy, were we wrong! It was so informational and fun that we couldn't believe 2 hours had passed! The kids can't wait to come back. And the difference in Daisy- well, you've made me a believer in this new kind of training! Thank you!"   S. S., Good Hart

"I couldn't wait to tell you: as you could tell, my husband did NOT want to be there. But on the way home, he said it was very interesting, and get this- he wants to come again! I was floored. You really won him over."    J. L. , Bay View

2) New Puppy Starting Out Right - 
This session is similar to Owner Training 101, but is a private session for families and their puppies from 6-14 weeks, and adds all the info necessary for your new fluffy baby.If you need help with housetraining, biting, jumping, and/or just want to start training your puppy (and yourselves-remember alot of this is Owner training!), this is the session for you. Again, I encourage the entire family to come. Many people cannot attend puppy class for whatever reason: schedule, concern for disease before full vaccination, individual concerns. I also have many people do this session and other private sessions while they wait for puppy class to begin, or concurrently. I can't stress it enough: the more early training and socialization you give your puppy now, the fewer problems you'll encounter later as your pup matures. The average age of surrender to shelters is 8-15 months, and the major reason is behavior problems. These are adolescent dogs that were not trained. Train your puppy, please?!
2 hr  (average)$100 ; $15 each 15 minutes extra

For a FREE copy of Dr. Dunbar's book "Before You Get Your Puppy" , click here . (also highly recommended for new puppy owners!)

"We watched the Dog Whisperer™ on TV, but we must not have done it right because it just made things worse. You explained what was going on and showed us effective methods for the everyday person. People should be required to take this session [New Puppy Starting Out Right] when they get a puppy; we learned so much! And the classes were so much fun. Besides learning new things each week and watching the puppies grow, we made great friends- it was our favorite night of the week. Please offer Level 3!"  A.D., Ellsworth

Puppy Kindergarden-
You and your puppy will learn the basics in a small individualized class setting, continuing on what was learned in the New Puppy Starting Out Right session which is a prerequisite: Sit, Down, Stay, Watch, Heel, Come, Leave it (and more as time allows) as well as play and socialization with other puppies! It's lots of fun, and you'll also learn solutions to common puppy problems . Lots of handouts, as in all my sessions. Classes are taught in my Petoskey Training Studio, and people come from all over because of the small class size and professional, dog-friendly training. For more information email me  or call (231) 439-0365. (see schedule and dates on Home page). Click here  for important class information before you come! Also, you must register- no walk-ins due to limited space.
4 weeks $80; class is 1 hour with 15 minutes playtime before AND after class

"Patty, Thanks so much for puppy class,we had fun and learned a lot! We would like to participate in level 2. If you would let me know dates and times, I will arrange my work schedule around that. Your classes have made such a difference in Chubacca and us, I can't imagine raising a pup without your training. You're the best! " C.D., Charlevoix

"Your puppy class is awesome! And it really helped having the private session first. We had just as much fun as the puppies, and we learned so much! We were sorry the 4 weeks went so fast."  E. K., Vanderbilt

Aggression Consultation -  How would YOUR life be different if your dog weren't aggressive? What could you do that you cannot do now??

I have a passion for working with individuals (and their families) to solve their problems and train their particular dog at its own speed (each dog has a totally unique personality and temperament). That’s why I can’t tell you sight unseen how long it’s going to take. But unlike clients who call for basic training  and manners, aggression cases are more serious and can take more time to figure out and resolve, though you will probably notice immediate improvement. I usually tell people  that we have to strengthen the foundation training and management techniques, which usually takes 2-4 sessions, while putting in place a program of desensitization and counter-conditioning (I’ll explain!), and go from there.  You’d be surprised how quickly some dogs improve, but of course I cannot guarantee an animal's behavior (including it's owners!). I often find several underlying problems; the aggression is simply a symptom.

These consults cost more because of the specialized knowledge required and  increased risk and danger. Most trainers won't take on aggression cases, but they represent almost half of my business. I feel for these troubled animals; usually there is a sweet loving heart underneath that ferocious display- dogs don't want to be aggressive!
Everyone in the household is required to come (except under age 5). Session is VERY comprehensive, lasts 3 hours, and is $225.

As an alternative to me, I can refer you to Tufts Animal Behavior Clinic, where they do behavioral counseling by fax. You receive a 5-10 page assessment and plan after submitting a history form. Cost is $250. Call 508-887-4640. 90 minute in-person sessions at Tufts are $389. www.tufts.edu/vet/behavior

UPDATE: I am now using a new treatment for aggression that is cutting-edge; few trainers in the country have been trained to use this modality. It is stress-free for the dog and you, and teaches your dog a new way to respond, thereby changing his emotions to his triggers whether dog or people. We can discuss in the Aggression Consult whether this treatment is appropriate for you and your dog. It can be much quicker than desensitization and counter-conditioning- the current gold standard - but requires blocks of time (several hours) in close proximity.

"We almost returned Dillon to the shelter due to his aggression, and our vet recommended seeing you. I'm so glad because we really fell in love with him, but couldn't have an aggressive dog around. The turnaround was dramatic in just 2 days. 3 weeks later, we couldn't ask for a nicer dog.  W.R., Traverse City

"We're so glad we met you after you learned the new protocol- our life is So completely different now. We could never take Mishka anywhere, not even for walks, nor could we have anyone over, and my husband needs to have clients meet him at home. She was so aggressive to both dogs and people, but we loved her so much. We knew she was a very serious case and that therapy would involve some  time and money, but we were unprepared for the quick turnaround! I mean after our second session, we were able to take her camping where there were lots of other dogs and horses. No reaction- we just couldn't believe it! We can walk around the neighborhood now and she ignores all the other maniac dogs. She is so well-behaved, too, with the basic training. We still need to work on her men issue, but it's all so much better we can't thank you enough. You've changed our lives; we're relaxed now!"    T.C. , Walloon Lake


OK, I'm interested- what do I do next?
 1)Please call or email for an appointment. Session start times are usually anytime between 11am and 7pm, including Saturdays, because I want the whole family to attend, including the dog, of course! One of the advantages to Private Training is that you can schedule sessions according to your schedule; it doesn't have to be the same time every week, or even every week, and if something comes up, you can cancel (with 24 hr notice) and not miss a class.

 2) Click here for the dog history/registration form that you MUST email/send/fax back to me before a session. I do alot of prep work BEFORE we even meet, which is why I need this form at least by the night prior to our session. We will need to reschedule your session if I do not receive this paperwork.

 3)If you are registering for the Aggression Consultation, you must also fill out and return the Aggression Screening Questionnaire BEFORE our meeting; click here to download. If your dog has another serious behavior problem such as Separation Anxiety, or other problem not covered by the Questionnaire, please contact me.

 4)Before our appointment:
                          Please be sure to read the Clicker Training article (see links above) 
                         Click here for what kind of treats to bring, and directions to the studio. 
                          Click herefor Training Fee Agreement.
                          Be sure to return the required form(s).
                          Bring a hungry dog and be ready to learn alot and have fun!

5) PAYMENT:  All training sessions and packages are paid in full, by cash or check, at the end of the first session, and are non-refundable. Paypal available if you wish to pay by credit card; no account necessary.

What About Continued Training?
Just because you do the Single Session Model doesn't mean you can't see me again! Many people do some basic training and manners to continue what they learned in the first session or Puppy Class. Or they want help with one specific behavior, like leash-walking downtown or coming when called outside, or continuing help with a separation anxiety case. Since you and your dog are individuals, I don’t do “cookie-cutter” sessions, so I can’t tell you exactly what we’ll cover, but we get ALOT done in a short time!  After a few sessions, you’ll have a dog who at least has basic self-control and good manners, as well as several behaviors that most owners want. I can help you decide which package would suit you and your dog best, based on your goals and your dog's learning style.

Training packages represent up to 25% discount off the per-session rate. Payment is at the end of first session and is non-refundable.
__Single session is $65.
__2- session package is $120, to be completed within 1 month
__4-session Basic Training & Manners Course is $210, to be completed within 2 months *Best Value*
__3-session Basic Training & Manners Course  (3-90 minute lessons; 4.5 hr total) is $225 to be completed in 2 months (this is ideal for multiple dogs, those traveling from a distance, or large families to give everyone a chance to learn, etc.) *Best Value*
__Home visits are $1/1 minute for gas and time, one-way. So if you live in Harbor Springs and it takes me 20 minutes each way, the travel fee is $20. Sessions held downtown or at waterfront (for practicing leash-walking, greeting behaviors, etc.) - no extra charge. Many people like the convenience of me coming to their home and in some cases, it's necessary to solve the problem.
__Head halter fitting and mini-leash walking session for non-clients: $40 (includes a Gentle Leader, Halti, or Easy Walk Harness). So many of my clients refer their friends who are impressed by the instant relief from pulling that these management tools provide. In my opinion, they should never be purchased off the shelf; the fitting needs to be precise, slow and gentle for the dog, and the dog owner needs to learn how to use it. This is a half hour session where I fit your dog, go through the temper tantrum that most dogs have at first (so you don't have to!) and  basic leash walking instructions. (Note: I've seen these sold for $40 locally without the fitting or leash-walking lesson- just the equipment itself!)
__Email consulting $15.  If you have a problem come up after we've met, and it takes more than a few minutes to answer but scheduling another session isn't necessary, I'd be happy to respond by email, along with handouts and suggestions. Follow-up emails sometimes take me an hour to address; I already spend more time at my desk than training! But this way you can get professional advice at a very reasonable rate. And you don't need to spend hours researching the internet or books for your problem. I'll simply send you a Paypal invoice, or you can send a check. I'll also let you know if your problem is too complex for an email response.

Drive-through Training™ - prices same as above
Too busy for training? Due to popular demand, I am now offering "Drive-through Training" where you drop the dog off for me to train while you run your errands OR I come to your home or office and work with your dog.  Come for the last 10 minutes of the  session to see what we learned, or just receive a written write-up of the session. (Owner Training 101 required first).

We are SO busy in the summer and thought we'd have to put off Daisy's training til September. Having you come right to our store and take her for leash-walking sessions not only helped her improve tremendously around other dogs, but helped us, too. What a great idea!  M.M., Petoskey

Board & Train-$75/nt or (minimum 4 nights- recommend at least 1 week) for approved dogs
This is the most economical and fastest way to get your dog trained. Economical because you are only charged for an hour of training a day(plus boarding) when in reality your dog is getting 24 hours of learning to be well-mannered within my pack (your dog lives in my house, not outside in a kennel). Owner training 101 is required first. You will get a  write-up of what we learned and how to follow-through. Many people use this service when they travel or have surgery; why not have Fido learn something and be in a loving home environment while they're away instead of being boarded in a kennel? Dates fill quickly, so call early if this option interests you (and if your dog qualifies). The nightly rate applies regardless of the time of drop-off and pick-up; training takes place every day. No drop-offs before 9am or pick-ups before noon, so please plan accordingly. You MUST fill out and email/bring a copy of the contract; you may download the Board & Train contract here. Most holidays OK for Board and Train clients. All dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations, heartworm medication, and be free of fleas and other parasites. No unneutered males over 6 months of age, or unhousetrained dogs, except puppies here for basic training.

No drop-offs before 9am; if you need to leave earlier, please schedule drop-off for the night before. Rates are calculated on a 24 hr basis; any time past 24 hours is charged Daycare rates (see below).  For example if you drop Muffy off at noon and pick her up a week later at 7pm, the rate would be $25 x 7, plus $15 for the 7 hours of the last day.

"Okay--you can tell us the truth now.  Did you perform a lobotomy on Rocky, or did you switch him for an identical well-behaved, calm labradoodle? The transformation has been astounding.  He lapses occasionally, but in the main, his behavior and responses to commands has improved 110%. We can't thank you enough! Mary & Jack, Oden

p.s.  If the people who got the real Rocky want their dog back, tell them we moved to Guatemala."

"I thought I made a big mistake getting a puppy at my age; she was wild! I was ready to give her away. What a difference you made in 5 days; I was so proud of how much she learned that I invited people over to show her off! " B.T.  Charlevoix

Some people are concerned that if they have me train their puppy, he won't bond with them. No need to worry; he won't forget you! Although he'll be spending alot of time with me and my dogs, we're only together a relatively short time. He's more likely to miss playing with my dogs than me! Board & Train is a combination summer camp and training camp- lots of fun, but serious training, too. He/she needs to follow the rules of the house, like sit for everything, no jumping, no furniture, no door-dashing, etc.

We couldn't be more pleased! Princess came home a different dog. And to think our vet and boarding facility recommended putting her down. We now know it was our own behavior that created this, and it will be hard not to spoil her so much, but we'll continue training. We have hope now and love our dog more than ever. Thank you Patty!!    B.R., Cheboygan

We can't get over the number of compliments we've been getting on Molly's behavior greeting visitors and heeling-she's a totally different dog. I used to be embarrassed taking her for walks, now everyone comments on my well-behaved dog- I've NEVER gotten compliments on any of my dogs, so I'm beaming. Those 10 days with you totally changed her. We can't wait to go away again! T.C., Charlevoix

Sleepovers (Boarding only) - $25/nt (only for 1 or 2 approved neutered/spayed dogs I have worked with)
 Again, your dog is housed in my home and plays with my and other boarding dogs. I charge slightly more than kennels because they live in my home, not a kennel- it's alot of work 24 hours/day, wear & tear on my house and yard, and requires alot of supervision. BUT I love doing it for approved dogs, their owners love it for the personal touch, and the dogs think they're at camp- no separation anxiety here! Please call to arrange dates. You MUST fill out and email/bring a copy of the contract; you may download the Boarding contract here. As my dogs are on special diets, and yours may also, please bring enough food to last his/her stay. And of course, they must be up-to-date on all vaccinations including bordatella (kennel cough), heartworm medication, and be free of fleas and other parasites. Add $10/nt for however many days you would like your dog leash-walked for 30+ minutes. No unneutered males over 6 months  of age or unhousetrained dogs (except puppies here for basic training.)

No drop-offs before 9am; if you need to leave earlier, please schedule drop-off for the night before. Rates are calculated on a 24 hr basis; any time past 24 hours is charged Daycare rates (see below).  For example if you drop Muffy off at noon and pick her up a week later at 7pm, the rate would be $25 x 7, plus $15 for the 7 hours of the last day.

" I wouldn't have Coco stay anywhere else. She always comes home so well-behaved, and I relax the whole time knowing she's in good hands. You're an angel!"       E.C., Charlevoix

Doggie Daycare- $15/day ( limited to 1 or 2 approved dogs  per day that I have worked with)
This is great for dogs who need more exercise and socialization. Going to Traverse City for the day? Need to get a project done? Don't know anyone with dogs for socialization? Your dog will have a great time and come home exhausted! Drop-offs after 8am, pick-up time is flexible. Half-day (4 hours or less) $10. Click here for Daycare/Boarding Contract.
                        
Important Note: Due to recovery from a long illness, I do not tolerate many chemicals. The Training Studio is therefore a scent-free zone.  Scented products include perfume, body washes, scented soaps and shampoos, cologne, after-shave, hairspray, etc. Would you mind please refraining from using these products on the day of your appointment? Thank you! Also, wear old clothes for dog-training, not ones recently laudered in detergent and fabric softener. I know you'd rather have a trainer who can think straight than one with a tension headache! I apologize for any inconvenience; yes, it's a pain! ("But I'm worth it!") This applies to your dog also; please do not schedule an appointment within 3 days of your dog being groomed- the fragrances in dog products are more toxic to me than people stuff! If you'd like more info on safer alternatives, just ask- I've become an expert!

If you have further questions, feel free to email me or call or fax: (231) 439-0365.

Gift Ideas:
Gift Certificates: Do you have a friend or family member whose dog could use some training and manners? (Or is it the friend or family member *smile*? I train people more than dogs, but we'll keep that our secret) Or are they embarrassed by their dog's aggressive behavior and you don't know how to help them? Consider a gift certificate for a caring birthday, anniversary, or holiday present. Any service applies, though the most common gift is Owner Training 101 alone or plus a 2-session package (total 4 hours; A LOT of training!). How about a Head halter fitting session for a confirmed puller? Increasingly popular are readings by the Animal Communicator.Click here to see sample certificate (graphics may not show, but it's cute! Will be customized just for YOU!).Call for more info.

Books, DVDs and unique toys and treats: I carry many books/DVDs and pamphlets that you cannot get locally and that I HIGHLY recommend, especially for people who would rather learn on their own than pay a trainer. Some are general positive training, and others are very specific, like Separation Anxiety, "Feisty Fidos" (dog aggression), housetraining, training a really reliable recall, and many others. I also carry a unique selection of treats and toys that many clients come back for, or have me ship, like the Everlasting Treat Ball (when you need some free time, this is like a doggie babysitter!), Treat-Stik, and more(also see Patty's Picks for recommended books and DVDs that make great gifts if you'd rather order online, but not everything I carry is available through Amazon).

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